Focus on the world’s problems
The World Economic Forum came to Harvard Thursday (Oct. 14) as part of a new effort to seek solutions to sweeping problems from the leaders of tomorrow, the University’s students. The forum, an international nonprofit dedicated to solving the world’s weightiest problems, is best known for its annual meetings in Davos, Switzerland, which attract leaders from around the globe. Harvard President Drew Faust, who delivered welcoming remarks at the event, said that she had attended two of those meetings and that they’re akin to “being on the mountain” seeking wisdom. “Now the mountain is here in Cambridge for the day,” Faust said. The session, held at the Graduate School of Design, sought to bring an alternative focus to the discussion called “Design and Global Challenges.” It featured working groups where faculty members and students discussed each of six issues: trade, population growth, the international monetary system, values, global governance, and the skills and...